Better Data Promotes Better Health

Health data and the way it is delivered offer insights for global leaders to improve the lives of their citizens.

When developing countries have access to accurate health data on their citizens and the technology to make that possible, great things can happen. At ICF, we know this better than anyone. Since 1984, we’ve implemented the Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS) Program, funded by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), providing assistance to more than 300 surveys in over 90 countries. The DHS Program collects data on fertility, family planning, maternal and child health, gender issues, HIV/AIDS, malaria and nutrition. The data we provide empowers leaders to improve the health of their citizens and the welfare of their country.

Whether it’s streamlining survey execution or enhancing the technology behind the data, our team is always looking for new ways to improve the way we track health issues. This attitude led us to convert several surveys into computer-assisted personal interviews — a technique in which the respondent or interviewer uses a computer to answer questions — lowering cost and improving access.

We’ve also developed a mobile app, giving policymakers a new tool for data access and new data upload capabilities.

The work we do to maintain and provide accessible data gets information into the hands of leaders who can make a difference in the world, one policy and one person at a time.